The Friendship Bench - All Our Daily Bread Daily Devotionals for 2026

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.
Romans 12:6

Today's Scripture
Nehemiah 3:6-12

Bible in a Year
Genesis 7-9, Matthew 3

Today's Devotional
A young patient committed suicide because he couldn’t afford the bus fare to the hospital for mental health treatment. Distressed, Dr. Chibanda tested ways to make treatment more accessible. Friendship Bench was born, a program where therapists sit on discreetly placed benches, ready to counsel people with needs. And who did he train as therapists? Grandmothers! In an interview, Dr. Chibanda shared, “[Grandmothers] are rooted in their communities . . . they have an amazing ability to . . . make people feel respected and understood.”

In Nehemiah 3, we read of another project that involved unconventional groups of people. They understood that the city’s wall had to be rebuilt so they’d “no longer be in disgrace” (2:17). As Jerusalem lay in ruins, the surrounding nations mocked its defeat. And besides professional craftsmen like Uzziel, who was a goldsmith (3:8), others who may have had other talents—like Shallum, a district ruler—chipped in too (v. 12).

Just as Dr. Chibanda saw the influence and compassion of grandmothers to make a difference in mental healthcare in Zimbabwe, may God open our eyes to see the strengths of each person. God has gifted each of us with unique experiences, resources, and talents (Romans 12:6). Let’s allow Him to use us in building up the church and serving our community.

Reflect & Pray
What has God laid on your heart to do for the church or community? Who can you invite to join you?

Dear Father, please help me see the strengths in others so I may serve with them for good.